Zebo helps Goal jersey day launch in Cork

Irish rugby star Simon Zebo officially launched Goal’s flagship national fundraising campaign in Cork this week.

At Virgin Media Park’s rugby grounds on Thursday, Mr Zebo joined forces with young sports fans, 12-year-old Logan O’Sullivan and his nine-year-old sister Aoibhinn O’Sullivan from Caheragh, to launch Jersey Day 2025.

The event, now in its 37th year, will take place on October 10 across the city and county, seeing participants wear their favourite sports jersey, be it rugby, soccer, GAA, basketball, hockey, or a custom creation.

Communities, schools, clubs, and workplaces are encouraged to take part in the initiative in support of GOAL’s humanitarian work across 14 countries in Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America.

This year’s campaign is sponsored by Premier Sports, whose partnership underscores a shared commitment to supporting global communities in crisis and helping them move from survival to resilience.

Last year, more than 40,000 participants from 120 businesses and 420 schools helped to raise €240,000 for Goal.

This year, organisers of the event have raised the fundraising target to €250,000, with proceeds going towards children and families in Gaza, Sudan and other crisis-affected regions.

Speaking at the launch, Mr Zebo said that Jersey Day 2025 is “not just about the jersey — it’s about standing together and raising vital funds”.

“Growing up in Cork, I was always taught the importance of community and looking out for those in need,” said Mr Zebo.

“That’s why I’m proud to support Goal — their work brings real hope and practical help to people in the toughest situations around the world.

“That jersey tells a story, it says ‘these are my people, this is my team’.

“It’s not just about the jersey, it’s about standing together and raising vital funds for Goal’s life-saving work around the world.”

Schools, businesses and workplaces interested in taking part in this year’s Jersey Day can register online at: https://jerseyday.org/